From Promising Football Star to Meat Seller: Agonising journey of Ikpe Ebere Michael
Once a rising star on Nigeria’s U-17 football team, Ikpe Ebere Michael’s life took a heartbreaking turn. The former international footballer now makes a living as a meat seller and goat washer, his dreams shattered by a career-ending injury.
The Injury That Changed Everything
In 2010, during preparations for the U-17 African Championship qualifiers against Congo, Ikpe suffered a knee injury. Despite his determination to continue, his performance declined, and he was eventually dropped from the team.
“I picked up the injury when we were preparing to play AFCON U-17 qualifiers. It affected my game, and after a poor performance in Congo, I was dropped,” Ikpe shared.
A Grim Diagnosis
An MRI scan revealed a severe knee condition requiring surgery, but the prognosis was grim. Doctors warned that he might only be able to play for five more years.
“This news broke me. Years of hard work and commitment were slipping away,” Ikpe recalled.
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Abandoned by the System
Ikpe sought assistance from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) but received none. “They told me there was no government funding for injured footballers,” he said.
From Football to Survival
With no support and his football career over, Ikpe pursued education, graduating from university. Today, he works in the market, washing goats and carrying buckets to sustain himself.
“For now, I help butchers to survive,” Ikpe said.
Ikpe’s story highlights the struggles faced by many athletes whose careers are abruptly cut short, raising questions about the support systems for injured sportspeople in Nigeria.
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